HAZING

Hazing is defined as any action taken or situation created that recklessly or intentionally endangers another person’s psychological, emotional, or physical health, regardless of the person’s willingness to participate, for the purpose of joining or maintaining membership with any organization, group, or team.

Reporting hazing is everyone’s responsibility and can save a life. A hazing incident may be reported to Stony Brook University by anyone: a person who was directly affected by the activity; a person who was involved in the incident; staff, parents, friends, or community members; or anyone who is generally concerned about a student or group.

Signs:

• Noticeable behavioral changes in students (withdrawal, fatigue, secrecy, mood shifts).
• Unexplained injuries or health issues, often paired with signs of stress or exhaustion.
• Unusual group activities, especially at night — including chanting, matching outfits, or isolating new members.
• Students expressing fear, shame, or reluctance to discuss group involvement or initiation.
• Lack of transparency around student organization practices, often justified as “tradition.”

What to do:

1. Emergencies and concerns for health and safety should always be reported immediately to law enforcement. Contact University Police at (631) 632-3333. Contact local police by calling 9-1-1.  
2. File an Incident Report at the Hazing Prevention website.
3. Report to staff at the following offices:
   1. University Police Department, (631) 632-3333.
   2. The Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards, email: communitystandards@stonybrook.edu or call (631) 632-6705.
   3. The Office of Student Life, email: StudentLife@stonybrook.edu or call (631) 632-9912.
4. If preferred, students may report to staff without providing personally identifying information. Please contact the respective office/staff member and state you wish to schedule a meeting either in person, over the phone, or via Zoom without providing your name.
5. Stony Brook’s Good Samaritan Policy encourages students to call for help during alcohol- or drug-related emergencies without fear of disciplinary action. Both the student in need and the bystander who acts in good faith may be protected from University sanctions. Learn more at stonybrook.edu/goodsamaritan.

Important to remember:

• While students may report anonymously, it is not encouraged, as anonymous reports limit the University’s ability to investigate thoroughly, verify details, and hold individuals or organizations accountable. 
• The University recognizes that students may be hesitant to report hazing due to concerns about their own conduct. However, under Stony Brook’s Hazing Policy, individuals who report hazing in good faith may be protected from disciplinary action. Learn more at stonybrook.edu/hazingprevention.